RAC Free Vehicle Check as early warning prior to MOT

[TrendsWithBenefits]

I have a car coming up for an MOT in a couple of months, and having had a really expensive MOT last year, I'm planning things better this year.

So last year I was caught by surprise with some major/dangerous faults in the last MOT (brake pads worn out etc). Unfortunately, as I'd left the MOT for practically the last couple of days before it was due, this meant that I couldn't get the car out and about for a second opinion. Also, since the car had already failed the MOT with dangerous faults, I wasn't sure of the legality of driving it away.

This year, I'm planning on getting an RAC vehicle check done well in advance of the MOT so I know what kinds of things are likely to come up on the MOT, so I'm prepared for any surprises.

The question I have though, is about whether this (free) RAC vehicle check is any good for this kind of an early warning check. Any experience or insight, good or bad, would be appreciated.

[eltax91]

Just take the car for it’s MoT exactly 30 days before expiry. If it passes you’ll have 13 months ticket, if it fails you’ll have a list of items to address

[Dr Interceptor]

Where/when do you have the car serviced? Any good service will also include a health check of brakes, tyres, exhaust, and underbody components like gaiters. If you timed this to be a month or so before the MOT, you'll have an idea of condition.

Then just check all your lights and indicators are working, and you've covered most of the MOT bases.

[sherman]

I would be more inclined to think that RAC will find a 'deadly fault' with your car that needs fixed before driving again and they happen to either have the part on the van or can arrange fitting for you for such a cheap price.

Just get your car MOT'd in time this year and pay better attenion to your vehicles needs.

[deckster]

Think about (a) the amount of time and care the RAC will expend on a free check, and (b) their motivations for doing so.

Don't waste your time, as others have said just get it MOTd early this time.

[Vintagejock]

Get it mot'd early as others have said. The only opinion that counts is that of the examiner at the time of inspection. Also be mindful that it's tested as presented, not a guarantee of future condition.

[Draxindustries1]

As others have mentioned , just book it in early. The problem with 'pre mot inspectons ' are you could be replacing unnecessary components.
Do the basics yourself like checking tyres for tread, sidewall condition , cracks/ splits ect, lights, wipers ect beforehand.

[Cold]

Why not have the car serviced? Not only will it get a health check and refresh of consumables it will be in exactly the right place if anything untowards requires attention.

[TrendsWithBenefits]

Thanks all - makes sense to get it serviced (it's probably due one anyway) and just get the MOT done 30 days before.

Will do just that.